India

New Delhi, March 30 (IANS) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has moved the Delhi High Court challenging a trial court order acquitting Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor and former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in cases related to alleged non-compliance with summons in connection with the excise policy money laundering case.

As per the causelist published on the official website, the plea is slated to be heard on Wednesday by a single-judge Bench of Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma.

The federal anti-money laundering agency’s appeal comes against the backdrop of the acquittal granted by the Rouse Avenue Court in complaint cases filed by the ED, which had accused Kejriwal of deliberately skipping multiple summons issued under Section 50 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

Earlier, Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate (ACJM) Paras Dalal had acquitted Kejriwal in the said complaints, holding that the material on record did not warrant his prosecution for non-compliance.

The ED had alleged that despite the issuance of five summons on different dates, Kejriwal failed to appear before the Central agency, prompting it to initiate prosecution proceedings. It had contended that non-compliance by a high public functionary would set a wrong precedent.

During earlier proceedings before the Delhi High Court, the ED had indicated its intention to challenge the acquittal after Kejriwal withdrew his plea questioning the summons issued to him.

The present development also assumes significance in view of parallel proceedings arising out of the Delhi excise policy case.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has already approached the Delhi High Court challenging a trial court order discharging all 23 accused, including Kejriwal and former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, in the corruption case linked to the now-scrapped excise policy.

The trial court, in a detailed order, had held that the prosecution failed to establish even a prima facie case and that the material on record did not give rise to any grave suspicion against the accused.

Meanwhile, Kejriwal has moved the Supreme Court challenging the decision of the Delhi High Court Chief Justice declining his request to transfer the hearing of the CBI’s plea from the Bench of Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma.

In his writ petition, Kejriwal has contended that the refusal to reassign the matter raises a reasonable apprehension regarding the impartiality of the proceedings. He has also filed a Special Leave Petition (SLP) against certain observations made by Justice Sharma while hearing the CBI’s revision plea.

Notably, the Delhi High Court had recently stayed adverse remarks made by the trial court against a CBI officer and the investigating agency while issuing notice on the CBI’s revision plea challenging the discharge of the accused in the excise policy case.

--IANS

pds/uk

Itanagar/Shillong, March 30 (IANS) Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen K.T. Parnaik (Retd) on Monday said that PM Modi’s ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’ initiative has strengthened cultural, traditional, and regional bonds across the country.

Addressing Rajasthan Diwas celebrations at Lok Bhavan in Itanagar, the Governor highlighted Rajasthan’s strengths in tourism, entrepreneurship, and its courteous social values. He encouraged the community to continue supporting Arunachal Pradesh’s growth, particularly by promoting tourism and contributing to socio-economic development.

He also urged citizens to actively participate in waste management initiatives and join efforts to combat social challenges such as drug abuse and health issues, especially tuberculosis. Emphasising the importance of collective responsibility, he said such efforts are vital to achieving the vision of a Viksit Bharat.

Lt Gen Parnaik expressed satisfaction that the youth, particularly students, are increasingly learning about and appreciating the cultural diversity of different states.

First Lady Anagha Parnaik and members of the Rajasthani community residing in Arunachal Pradesh participated in the celebrations. The Governor appreciated the community for its valuable contributions to the state’s development and commended its spirit of valour, patriotism, and commitment to preserving rich cultural traditions.

Students from the Donyi Polo Mission School for Hearing and Visually Impaired in Chimpu attended as special guests and presented a patriotic dance performance.

The programme also featured vibrant cultural performances showcasing Rajasthan’s artistic heritage, including ‘Rajasthan Ro Bakhan’, ‘Kesaria Banda Gher Ghoomar’, and traditional folk dances such as ‘Ghoomar’, ‘Chari’, and ‘Kathputli’. Members of the Rajasthani community, including senior bureaucrats and entrepreneurs, participated enthusiastically.

The Governor, who has been associated with the Rajputana Rifles regiment of the Indian Army, also hosted a high tea and interacted with guests. As part of the cultural exchange, traditional delicacies such as ‘Lapshi’ and ‘Moti Pak’ were served.

Meanwhile, in Meghalaya, Lok Bhavan in Shillong celebrated the Foundation Day of Bihar, Rajasthan, and Odisha with a special programme held at the Durbar Hall. The event was attended by government officials, students, distinguished citizens, and invited guests.

The celebrations featured cultural performances, including traditional dances from the three states. Addressing the gathering, Meghalaya Governor C.H. Vijayashankar extended greetings to the people of Bihar, Rajasthan, and Odisha and highlighted their rich historical, cultural, and religious heritage.

He also commended the participating artists for their dedication, noting that their performances reflected not only individual commitment but also the cultural identity of their respective states.

--IANS

sc/pgh

New Delhi, March 30 (IANS) Out of around 19.36 crore rural households in the country, around 15.82 crore (81.71 per cent households are reported to have tap water supply in their homes as on March 3, the Rajya Sabha was informed on Monday.​

The Minister of State for Jal Shakti V. Somanna, in a written reply, said that at the start of the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) - Har Ghar Jal in August 2019, only 3.23 crore (16.7 per cent of rural households were reported to have tap water connections.​

This initiative ensures an adequate supply of prescribed-quality water on a regular, long-term basis through tap water connections.​

He said the department undertakes an assessment of the functionality of household tap water connections provided under the Mission through an independent third-party agency selected using standard statistical sampling methods.​

During the Functionality Assessment, 2024, it was found that 98.1 per cent of households in surveyed villages had tap connections and 87 per cent of households with tap connections reported receiving water in the past week, indicating overall progress.​

The Assessment 2024 found that 84 per cent households receive water as per schedule; 80 per cent households were found receiving the minimum 55 LPCD water; 76 per cent households were found free from bacteriological contamination and 81 per cent households of the supply source were found free from chemical contamination and considering the parameters of quantity, quality and regularity 76 per cent of household tap connections were found to be functional, he said.​

The Minister of State said that a number of steps have been taken to plan and implement JJM in the whole country, with speed, inter alia, including regular review of implementation, workshops/ conferences/ webinars for capacity building, training, knowledge sharing, and field visits by a multi-disciplinary team to provide technical support.​

A detailed Operational Guideline for the implementation of JJM; Margdarshika for Gram Panchayats & VWSCs to provide safe drinking water in rural households and Guidelines on a special campaign to provide piped water supply in anganwadi centres, ashramshalas and schools have been shared with States/ UTs to facilitate effective planning and implementation of Jal Jeevan Mission, he said.​

For online monitoring, JJM–Integrated Management Information System (IMIS) and JJM–Dashboard have been put in place. Provision has also been made for transparent online financial management through the Public Financial Management System (PFMS), he said.​

--IANS

rch/dan

New Delhi, March 30 (IANS) The overall flight situation from the Gulf nations continues to improve, with around 85 flights expected to operate from the UAE to India on Monday, while some also continue to operate from various airports in Saudi Arabia and Oman to different destinations in India, according to the Ministry of External Affairs.

With the Qatar airspace partially open, Qatar Airways was expected to operate around 10 flights to India on Monday.

However, the Kuwait and Bahrain airspaces remain closed. Jazeera Airways and Gulf Air are operating non-scheduled commercial flights from Dammam Airport in Saudi Arabia to various destinations in India.

Airlines are operating limited non-scheduled flights based on operational and safety considerations, with around 5,50,000 passengers having returned to India since February 28.

Due to airspace restrictions, Indian nationals are being facilitated for travel via alternative routes, including from Iran through Armenia and Azerbaijan, from Israel through Egypt and Jordan, from Iraq through Jordan and Saudi Arabia, and from Kuwait and Bahrain through Saudi Arabia.

Meanwhile, an Indian national lost his life in an attack in Kuwait. The government has expressed condolences to the family, and the mission is coordinating with local authorities for the early repatriation of the mortal remains.

A total of 8 Indian nationals have lost their lives in various incidents, and one remains missing, with missions continuing to coordinate with local authorities and provide assistance to affected families, the statement said.

The ministry said it continues to closely monitor the evolving situation in the Gulf and West Asia region, with the safety, security and welfare of the Indian community remaining the highest priority.

Particular attention is being given to Indian seafarers, with missions maintaining continuous contact with crew members to provide consular assistance, facilitate communication with families and assist in repatriation requests.

The welfare of Indian students in the Gulf countries is also being accorded high priority, with efforts being made to ensure that their academic year is not impacted.

Missions are coordinating with local authorities, Indian schools, the education boards concerned, and the National Testing Agency to address academic concerns. The CBSE has notified an assessment scheme for declaration of Class X and XII results in the region, while concerns related to ICSE, Kerala Boards, and examinations such as JEE and NEET are being addressed through regular outreach to students and parents, the statement said.

--IANS

sps/vd

Hyderabad, March 30 (IANS) The Telangana Legislative Assembly on Monday unanimously passed a resolution, urging the Centre to take the initiative to stop the war in the Middle East.​

The resolution warns that if the war between the US, Israel, and Iran continues, this could lead to a third World War, posing a serious threat to the very survival of humanity.​

Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka introduced the resolution, which was passed by a voice vote.

The resolution noted that the war in West Asia is taking multiple forms and is destabilising the global economy.​

“We all know that crude oil (petrol, diesel, gas) significantly influences the economic conditions of every country. Due to the impact of this war on crude oil production and transportation, supply chains are being disrupted. The United States and Israel are carrying out attacks on Iran and Lebanon. At the same time, Iran is targeting U.S. defence bases located in the Gulf and Middle Eastern countries. These attacks involve advanced weaponry such as fighter bombers, ballistic missiles, and drones. In this large-scale destruction caused by such weapons, nearly 4,000 innocent people have lost their lives,” says the resolution.​

“Along with these deaths, massive economic devastation is also taking place. While the loss of lives may be confined to the respective countries, the economic destruction affects the entire world. It has become particularly dangerous for Asian countries, and India is also experiencing severe impacts,” reads the resolution.​

“At least now, if this war is not stopped, the future of the world will become alarming. If left unchecked, it could even lead to a Third World War, posing a serious threat to humanity's survival. Considering these extremely dangerous consequences, this House urges the Government of India to take the initiative to stop the war and to work towards establishing global peace,” it added.​

--IANS

ms/dan

Jaipur, March 30 (IANS) The 2026–27 academic session in Rajasthan’s government schools will commence from April 1 with renewed enthusiasm and widespread public participation. To mark the beginning, Praveshotsav 2026 is being organised across the state as a large-scale campaign aimed at increasing enrolment, reducing dropout rates, and ensuring every child is connected to education, officials said on Monday.

The Education Department has completed all necessary preparations and issued guidelines from the state to the school level to ensure smooth implementation. This year, Praveshotsav is being conducted not merely as a ceremonial event but as a focused mission to bring every child into the educational mainstream. A key highlight of this year’s initiative is an intensive door-to-door outreach campaign.

Under a phased schedule on March 27, April 6, April 10, and April 15, teams comprising Anganwadi workers, teachers, school staff, and local representatives are visiting households to identify children aged 3 to 18 years and ensure their enrolment, officials said, adding that “this extensive effort aims to ensure that no child is left out of the education system and that awareness about schooling reaches every family.”

The recently organised Mega Parent-Teacher Meeting (PTM) has laid a strong foundation for the campaign. Education Minister Madan Dilawar, ACS (Education) Rajesh Yadav, and Director Sitaram Jat personally visited schools to review preparations and promote dialogue between parents and teachers. The initiative has enhanced transparency and strengthened parental trust in government schools.

In a major step, teaching activities will begin in full swing from the very first day of the session. The department has ensured timely distribution of textbooks, with most supplies reaching districts by March 25 and the remainder to be completed by April 1. This ensures that the goal of “learning from day one” becomes a reality across government schools.

To promote holistic development, a digital health check-up campaign will begin from April 16. Students will undergo regular health screenings, and necessary medical support will be provided. Additionally, special academic activities will be conducted in May to strengthen foundational learning and improve overall educational outcomes.

Government schools in Rajasthan have seen significant improvements in recent years, including trained teachers, better infrastructure, smart classrooms, ICT labs, activity-based learning, sports facilities, vocational education, and digital libraries. Scholarships and incentive schemes are also encouraging students to perform better, positioning government schools as reliable centres of quality education.

The Education Department has directed all officials to work with commitment to ensure that no child is deprived of education. Parents have been urged to enrol their children in nearby government schools, with special emphasis on admitting children aged 5 to 6 into Class 1, particularly those transitioning from Anganwadi centres.

With the theme “Education Begins with the Start of the Academic Session”, Praveshotsav 2026 is evolving into a mass movement across Rajasthan — aimed at reaching every household, enrolling every child, and strengthening the foundation of the state’s future through education.

--IANS

arc/pgh

Guwahati, March 30 (IANS) An operational group meeting between the Army and the Assam Rifles on Monday reaffirmed the prevailing stability in Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Nagaland, officials said.​

Defence spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Mahendra Rawat said that under the aegis of Spear Corps and the Directorate General of Assam Rifles, a quarterly operational group meeting was convened at Lekhapani (Assam) on Monday.​

He said the meeting brought together senior representatives from the Indian Army, Assam Rifles, state police, and intelligence agencies to undertake a comprehensive review of the prevailing security situation and to reinforce inter-agency coordination across eastern Assam, southern Arunachal Pradesh, and adjoining areas of Nagaland.​

The meeting was attended by Shri Hibu Tamang, Inspector General of Police (operations) for the Tirap, Changlang, and Longding regions of Arunachal Pradesh, along with formation commanders of the Assam Rifles, Army representatives from eastern (upper) Assam, and senior police officials from the respective states. ​

The presence of all stakeholders reflected a unified and resolute approach towards addressing emerging security challenges in the region, Lieutenant Colonel Rawat said.​

According to the spokesman, deliberations focused on assessing ground intelligence, enhancing real-time information sharing, and aligning operational priorities.

Discussions covered insurgent group activities, cross-border dynamics, and the need to strengthen surveillance and area domination in vulnerable pockets, he said.​

In addition, in view of the forthcoming Assam Legislative Assembly elections, emphasis was laid on maintaining heightened vigilance and ensuring a secure environment to preclude any disruption to the electoral process.​

The Defence spokesman said the meeting culminated in reaffirmation of a cohesive joint operational framework, improved interoperability, and streamlined coordination protocols to enable swift and effective response to contingencies. ​

All agencies reiterated the need for continuous adaptation, joint training, and a unified operational posture in sensitive areas, reflecting a high degree of synergy, trust, and professionalism among the security forces, he stated.​

The vital elections to the 126-member Assam Assembly will be held on April 9.​

--IANS

sc/dan

New Delhi: March 30 (IANS) On the occasion of Rajasthan Day, Minister of Art, Culture & Languages, Tourism and Labour Kapil Mishra on Monday extended greetings to the people of the country and the state on behalf of the Delhi government.​

A cultural event was also held at the Delhi Secretariat, showcasing Rajasthan's rich cultural heritage.​

The programme was organised by the Department of Art, Culture and Languages through Sahitya Kala Parishad, said an official statement.​

Mishra said that Rajasthan is globally renowned for its tales of valour, cultural grandeur, and vibrant traditions.​

He also highlighted the significant contribution of people from Rajasthan residing in Delhi towards the development of the capital.​

The Minister stated that under the leadership of Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, the Government of Delhi is organising celebrations of State Foundation Days in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Ek Bharat–Shreshtha Bharat’ vision.​

These initiatives reflect the collective spirit of strengthening national unity and achieving the goal of a developed Delhi. Such events play a vital role in showcasing India’s diverse cultural heritage and passing it on to the younger generation, he said.​

The programme featured Rajasthan’s folk culture along with traditional music and dance performances. Around 25 artists participated, presenting mesmerising performances of Kalbelia, Ghoomar, and Bhavai, which enthralled the audience.​

Mishra emphasised that such events are significant steps towards promoting cultural harmony in the capital.​

Earlier in the day, Mishra watched the film ‘Dhurandhar – The Revenge’ (Dhurandhar-2) along with citizens and media representatives during a special screening organised under the International Film Festival, Delhi (IFFD).​

On this occasion, Mishra stated, “Every soldier serving and safeguarding the nation is a true hero of India, and their contribution will always remain paramount.”​

He added that films such as Uri, Shershaah, and Dhurandhar highlight the dedication and sacrifices of the armed forces. Such films strengthen patriotism and inspire youth.​

The Cabinet Minister stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, ‘New India’ is rapidly moving towards self-reliance in the security sector, with defence capabilities continually being strengthened.​

--IANS

rch/dan

​

Gandhinagar, March 30 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Gujarat on March 31 to inaugurate the Samrat Samprati Museum at Koba Tirth in Gandhinagar, and launch several significant development projects across the state, covering cultural, technological, and infrastructural milestones.​

Speaking ahead of his visit, the Prime Minister said in a post: “The Samrat Samprati Museum is a testament to the rich legacy of Jainism and India’s civilisational traditions. It will provide visitors with a chronological understanding of the evolution of Jainism and its contributions to humanity.”​

At around 10:00 a.m., on the occasion of Mahavir Jayanti, Prime Minister Modi will inaugurate the Museum on the campus of the Mahavir Jain Aradhana Kendra.​

Named after Samrat Samprati, the grandson of Emperor Ashoka and a revered figure in Jain history, the museum showcases India’s historical, cultural, and spiritual heritage.​

The museum features seven wings, each dedicated to a distinct aspect of India’s civilisational traditions.​

Visitors can view over 2,000 rare artefacts, including intricately crafted stone and metal idols, large Tirth Patta and Yantra Patta, miniature paintings, silver chariots, coins, and ancient manuscripts.​

The exhibits, complemented by modern audio-visual and digital installations, provide an immersive experience for scholars, researchers, and visitors.​

The Prime Minister noted, “The museum not only preserves our heritage but also showcases the exemplary Jain culture and its enduring influence on society.”​

At 12:45 p.m., Prime Minister Modi will inaugurate the Kaynes Semicon Plant at Sanand GIDC in Ahmedabad, marking a key milestone in India’s semiconductor journey.​

"This adds more momentum to India’s efforts to become a hub for semiconductors. It will give impetus to India being self-reliant in high technology manufacturing," PM Modi said.​

The facility will begin commercial production of advanced Intelligent Power Modules (IPMs), critical components for automotive and industrial applications.​

Each module contains 17 chips and will be supplied to California-based Alpha and Omega Semiconductor (AOS).​

This plant will be the second semiconductor facility in India to commence commercial production under the 'India Semiconductor Mission', following Micron Technology.​

Once fully operational, it will produce up to 6.33 million units per day, strengthening domestic semiconductor packaging capacity and advancing India’s vision of self-reliance in high-technology manufacturing.​

The plant also establishes India’s second OSAT/ATMP unit and marks the entry of an Indian-origin Electronics Manufacturing Services (EMS) player into semiconductor manufacturing.​

In the afternoon, Prime Minister Modi will travel to Vav-Tharad, where he will lay the foundation stone, inaugurate, and dedicate multiple development projects worth over Rs 20,000 crore.​

These projects cover Power, Railways, Roads & Highways, Health, Urban Development, Tribal Development, and Rural Development.​

Among the key road projects, the Prime Minister will inaugurate the Ahmedabad-Dholera Expressway, an access-controlled highway costing over Rs 5,100 crore, which will improve connectivity and support industrial development in the Dholera Special Investment Region.​

He will also lay the foundation stone for the 4-lane Idar-Badoli bypass and upgrade the Dholavira-Mauvana-Vav-Santalpur NH-754K section to a two-lane paved shoulder carriageway.​

Flyovers at Bhaijipura Junction and PDPU Junction will be inaugurated to ease traffic congestion on roads handling over 1,40,000 vehicles daily.​

In the power sector, the Prime Minister will inaugurate the Khavda Pooling Station-2 and associated transmission systems, enabling the evacuation of 4.5 GW of renewable energy with an investment of around Rs 3,650 crore.​

Railway projects to be dedicated include the Kanalus–Jamnagar doubling (28 km), part of the Rajkot–Kanalus doubling (111.20 km), and the Gandhidham–Adipur quadrupling (10.69 km).​

The Himmatnagar–Khedbrahma gauge conversion (54.83 km) will improve regional connectivity, and the Khedbrahma–Himmatnagar–Asarwa train service will be flagged off.​

In urban and health infrastructure, the Prime Minister will inaugurate 44 Urban Development projects worth Rs 5,300 crore, 858-bed Rain Basera facilities at Civil Hospitals in Asarwa in Ahmedabad, and Gandhinagar, and the Government Boys Hostel at Vejalpur for tribal students.​

Tourism projects include the Light and Sound Show at Rani ki Vav, Patan, the Water Screen Projection Show at Sharmishtha Lake, Vadnagar, and the foundation of tourism infrastructure at Balaram Mahadev and Vishweshwar Mahadev, Banaskantha.​

Water projects include the Kasara–Dantiwada Pipeline and the Dindrol–Mukteshwar Pipeline, as well as a water supply scheme for Ambaji and surrounding villages, benefiting around 1.5 lakh people.​

Expansion works on the Sabarmati Riverfront in Gandhinagar, with an investment of approximately Rs 1,000 crore, will also be initiated.​

--IANS

mys/dan

New Delhi, March 30 (IANS) The Supreme Court has pulled up several states and authorities for failing to respond in a matter concerning human trafficking and missing persons, warning of contempt action, as it directed the formulation of a nationwide Standard Operating Procedure (SOP).

In its order, a Bench of Justices Ahsanuddin Amanullah and R. Mahadevan recorded that despite service of notice, no one had entered an appearance on behalf of the Union of India and several states, including Haryana, Mizoram, Kerala, Odisha, and Maharashtra.

Taking serious note of the lapse, the apex court directed that Directors General of Police (DGPs) of the defaulting states file personally affirmed affidavits by April 16 explaining their non-appearance.

"Personally affirmed affidavit be filed, latest by 16.04.2026, by all the Directors General of Police of the aforesaid States....failing which they shall be personally present before this Court," it ordered.

The Justice Amanullah-led Bench made it clear that non-compliance would invite stringent consequences, observing: "If no such affidavit is filed by them till 16.04.2026, no excuse for their non-appearance shall be acceptable", and cautioned that failure may lead to issuance of contempt notices.

Emphasising the need for a uniform and effective response mechanism, the top court directed the Union of India, states and Union Territories to submit detailed affidavits outlining procedures to be followed in such cases.

It clarified that it was not seeking theoretical frameworks but actionable solutions, stating that it is "not interested in any hypothetical or academic formula, but rather a practical strategy/approach which can be implemented/put into place right away at the local Police Station level”.

Highlighting the time-sensitive nature of such cases, the bench said: "In such matters of human trafficking, including child trafficking, time is of the greatest importance", and stressed that guidelines must factor in immediate police response upon receiving a missing person complaint.

"Till the person is not finally located, the case shall be kept alive not just on paper, but actually on the ground also," the order said.

To streamline the process, the apex court asked the Union Home Secretary, along with their counterparts in states and UTs, and the Directors General of Police, to hold consultations with all stakeholders and submit concrete suggestions within a month.

These recommendations will be consolidated under the aegis of the Union Home Ministry to formulate a pan-India SOP.

The top court also directed that existing guidelines, including the Union government’s 2016 SOP, be revisited in light of the present exercise. It also constituted a core committee comprising former IPS officer P.M. Nair, MHA Director Veerendra Kumar Mishra, and Additional Solicitor General S.D. Sanjay, who will act as Convenor and Coordinator for the exercise.

It also directed that specialised anti-trafficking agencies should also be involved to ensure that the final SOP is "workable and effective".

Further, the Ministry of Home Affairs has been tasked with providing logistical and administrative support to the committee, including office space, staff, and security arrangements. The matter has been posted for further hearing on April 21.

--IANS

pds/vd